The BBC's statement said the acquisition "may change (ITV's) strategic direction in a way that would ... harm the competitive process". In its submission, Virgin said: "BSkyB already has a history of using its powerful market positions adversely to affect its rivals' ability to compete."
The Commission also confirmed that its inquiry will include an investigation into the link between Sky and the rest of Rupert Murdoch's media empire, which includes The Times and The Sun.